Planning a trip to Japan is so exciting — the culture, the food, the calm beauty of it all. But when it comes to how much to pack, it’s easy to overthink.
Here’s a gentle, practical guide to help you pack just the right amount — not too much, not too little — so your trip feels light, easy, and joyfully uncluttered 🎒✨
🧳 1. Aim for One Medium Suitcase + One Day Bag
Japan is incredibly walkable — but that also means you’ll carry your luggage more than you think.
Train stations have stairs. Sidewalks can be narrow. Hotel rooms are small.
One medium suitcase (or backpack) and one small personal bag are usually ideal.
Pack light, move freely.
👘 2. Clothing: Minimal, Layered, and Season-Smart
Japan is fashion-forward, but not flashy. Comfort and neatness go a long way.
Bring: • 4–5 mix-and-match outfits
• 1–2 light layers (cardigan, jacket)
• Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk a lot)
• Slip-on shoes (for temples or homes)
• Socks you don’t mind showing (you’ll often remove shoes indoors)
Laundry is easy to find, even in convenience stores or capsule hotels — so no need to overpack.
🧼 3. Toiletries: Travel Size is Enough
Hotels and Airbnbs often provide essentials like: • Shampoo
• Soap
• Towels
• Hairdryers
But bring: • Your favorite toothpaste (Japanese ones are mild)
• Travel-size sunscreen
• Any skincare or makeup you prefer
• Medications (in original packaging, with prescription if needed)
📱 4. Tech + Travel Tools
Make your travels smoother with: • A SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi
• Portable charger
• Japan-compatible plug adapter (Type A/B – same as the US)
• Google Maps + Google Translate apps
• Suica or Pasmo card (for trains and vending machines)
Keep all electronics and chargers in your day bag for easy access.
🎁 5. Leave Room for Souvenirs
Japan is full of irresistible gifts — ceramics, snacks, stationery, skincare.
Leave a little space (or pack a foldable tote bag) for the treasures you’ll inevitably find.
You’ll thank yourself when you’re not cramming a box of matcha KitKats into an overstuffed suitcase.
🍱 6. What Not to Bring
You can skip: • Hair straighteners or dryers (Japan’s voltage may not match)
• Big backpacks in cities (can be considered rude in crowds)
• Too many shoes (just 1–2 versatile pairs is perfect)
Also avoid packing clothing that’s too revealing — Japan leans modest, especially in temples or countryside towns.
🏡 7. Staying Longer? Ship It!
If you’re staying for more than a few weeks or moving between cities, consider takkyubin — Japan’s luggage shipping service.
It’s affordable, reliable, and lets you travel hands-free while your bags meet you at the next hotel.
✨ Final Thought
When packing for Japan, think: intentional, portable, and peaceful.
The less you carry, the more you can soak in the beauty — from quiet shrines to bustling markets.
Travel light, and leave space for the unexpected joys 🍂
